VNSHS members have the opportunity to have their performance against the standards independently validated through the VNSHS Regional Validation Program. This means that the service can be recognised for its contribution to reducing the health impacts of smoking and for aligning with best practice approaches in managing nicotine dependence. It also means that the health service can gain valuable input towards continuous improvement.
The process involves a formal and structured review, conducted by experienced health service surveyors and resulting in a detailed report that provides a basis for further planning and improvement. The process also results in recognition of the level of performance achieved according to the global performance framework and the global standards.
Importantly, validation through the Regional Validation Program is now a pre-requisite for health services wishing to apply for Gold Status at the Global Network Gold Forum.
*Healthcare Services with a self-audit score of 126 or more are eligible to request external recognition (GOLD FORUM).
The participating health service conducts their self-audit against the Global Standards.
The results are externally validated by experienced surveyors who visit the service to review the evidence provided by the health service and provide a detailed report, including feedback to support ongoing improvement.
Other network members have an opportunity to participate in the on-site review process and contribute to the learning for the health service in question and the wider group.
The level of achievement is formally certified and recognised on the Network website.
To see how validation works in practice, login to the Network meetings page to see videos from the Regional Validation Day at Barwon Health.
Participation in the formal onsite review is provided at the cost of $2,500 per health service (including GST), which includes the 1-day visit by two surveyors and a detailed report. It also includes support from the VNSHS Coordinating Centre in planning for the visit and arranging involvement of other members.
Complete the application and submit to the VNSHS Coordinating Centre together with a recent self-audit and your current action plan.
The Coordinating Centre will liaise with you regarding suitable times and preparatory work.